Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos has praised Lionel Messi for returning to club action just two weeks after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Messi played all eight matches as Argentina reached the final before losing 1-0 to Spain. The 39-year-old came off the bench in Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw with Columbus Crew, finishing with four shots.
After the match, Hoyos praised his team’s effort and reserved special recognition for Messi and fellow Argentina international Rodrigo De Paul for rejoining the club so soon after the World Cup.
“I want to thank all the players for the effort they put in.”

“I especially want to thank Leo and Rodri for traveling and showing up so soon after the World Cup. That was very important” Hoyos said.

Messi has 13 goals and seven assists in 17 games in all competitions.









